73’s upset by Flyers 5-2

Club failing to get into playoff mode

By Kevin E. Neels

The Alvinston Flyers ran into the “Perfect Storm” Friday at home with the Essex 73’s making their first visit of the season, and they handled themselves very well delivering a knockout punch in the form of a 5-2 victory.

Knowing very well that the 73’s had been off for a week and a half was just the ticket the Flyers needed. They took full advantage of the opportunity and probably secured the final playoff berth in the North Division at the same time.

The time off didn’t look like it had affected Essex during the opening shift of the game as the club skated circles around the home team, hemming them deep in their own zone. That first shift was probably the highlight of the evening for Essex as it was downhill after that. Alvinston opened up a 3-1 edge after the first frame and never looked back. The 73’s lone goal came off a Nick Nicodemo deflection.

Neither club found the back of the net in period two, although Essex did play a better period but had trouble beating Flyers goaltender Brandon Campbell.

An early third period power play goal gave Alvinston a three-goal cushion, which they were quite happy to sit back and protect as witnessed by the number of icings that were called. The 73’s managed to cash in on a late power play goal but by then it was much to little and much to late. The Flyers completed the scoring with an empty net marker just a few seconds later.

“This loss is very disappointing,” said Kevin Boggs. “I thought we worked hard but mentally we were not in the game. This just compounds the pressure for Tuesday’s game, which we better be prepared for.”

“I don’t even know where to start,” said Sean Ducharme. “We got behind the eight ball in that first period, and although we played better as the game went on, it was too late. Every team seems to take Alvinston too lightly and we can’t do that, especially at this stage of the season when everyone is fighting for playoff spots. We should be playing smart, playoff-type hockey right now, but we are falling short of that. I certainly hope that this is a huge lesson learned.”

Upcoming Games
Friday, Feb. 5 - Essex at Alvinston 8:00 pm
Saturday, Feb. 6 – Essex at Kingsville 7:30 pm

Notes
-The Essex 73’s will be holding their second Cupid’s Night – A Valentine’s Day Celebration event on Saturday, Feb. 13 at the Hellenic Banquet Hall in Oldcastle featuring *Legends Live* with Tribute’s to Elvis, Tina Turner, Tim McGraw and Shania Twain. See any executive for your ticket. Make’s a great Valentine’s Day gift.